In the world of college football, few names have garnered as much respect and admiration as Kirby Smart. Known for his strategic brilliance and relentless pursuit of excellence, Smart has transformed the University of Georgia’s football program into a powerhouse. His journey from a player to one of the most successful coaches in the nation is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Kirby Smart, diving into his salary, his time with the Falcons, the teams he has coached, the details of his contract, and his age and connection to Texas A&M. Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just curious about what makes Kirby Smart so successful, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the insights you need.
Who is Kirby Smart? A Brief Overview
Kirby Paul Smart was born on December 23, 1975, in Montgomery, Alabama. From a young age, it was clear that Smart was destined for a career in football. His father, Sonny Smart, was a high school football coach, and Kirby grew up surrounded by the sport. This early exposure to football not only fueled his passion for the game but also laid the foundation for his future career as a coach.
Smart played as a defensive back during his college years at the University of Georgia, where he was a four-year letterman and an All-SEC selection as a senior. His playing career provided him with a deep understanding of the game, which he later translated into a successful coaching career.
The Early Coaching Years
After graduating from the University of Georgia in 1999, Kirby Smart quickly transitioned into coaching. He started as an administrative assistant at Georgia, which marked the beginning of his journey in coaching. Over the next few years, Smart would take on various roles at different institutions, honing his skills and building a reputation as a rising star in the coaching world.
Kirby Smart’s Coaching Journey: Past Teams Coached
Kirby Smart’s coaching career is marked by a series of strategic moves that have seen him rise through the ranks to become one of the most respected coaches in college football. His journey includes stints at several prestigious programs, each of which played a role in shaping his coaching philosophy.
Early Coaching Roles
- Valdosta State (2000-2001): Kirby Smart’s first coaching role was at Valdosta State University, where he served as the defensive backs coach. This position allowed him to develop his skills in coaching defense, laying the groundwork for his future success.
- Florida State (2002-2003): Smart then moved to Florida State University, where he worked as a graduate assistant. This role provided him with valuable experience at a larger program, exposing him to the intricacies of coaching at a higher level.
- LSU (2004): In 2004, Smart joined Louisiana State University as a defensive backs coach under head coach Nick Saban. This was a pivotal moment in Smart’s career, as he began to work closely with Saban, who would become a significant influence on his coaching style.
- Miami Dolphins (2006): Following Saban to the NFL, Smart worked as the safeties coach for the Miami Dolphins. His experience in the NFL further broadened his understanding of the game, particularly in the defensive strategies that would become his hallmark.
The Alabama Years: A Turning Point
Perhaps the most defining period in Kirby Smart’s career came during his time at the University of Alabama. Smart joined Alabama’s coaching staff in 2007 as the assistant head coach and defensive backs coach. His impact was immediate, and he quickly rose to become the defensive coordinator.
Under Smart’s leadership, Alabama’s defense became one of the most feared units in college football. His ability to develop game plans that neutralized even the most potent offenses earned him widespread recognition. During his tenure at Alabama, Smart helped lead the team to four national championships (2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015), cementing his reputation as one of the best defensive minds in the game.
The Move to Georgia: Building a Legacy
In December 2015, Kirby Smart was named the head coach of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, returning to his alma mater. This move marked the beginning of a new era for Georgia football. Smart’s influence was felt immediately as he implemented the defensive strategies and winning culture he had developed at Alabama.
Under Smart’s leadership, Georgia has consistently been a top contender in the SEC and on the national stage. His tenure has been marked by several significant achievements, including an SEC Championship in 2017 and a trip to the College Football Playoff National Championship game in the same year. Smart’s ability to recruit top talent and develop them into NFL-caliber players has been a key factor in Georgia’s sustained success.
Kirby Smart and the NFL: The Falcons Connection
While Kirby Smart is best known for his success in college football, his connection to the NFL, particularly the Atlanta Falcons, is an interesting aspect of his career. In 2010, Smart was offered the position of defensive coordinator for the Falcons, a role that would have seen him return to the NFL after his stint with the Miami Dolphins.
Why Kirby Smart Chose College Football Over the NFL
Despite the allure of coaching in the NFL, Kirby Smart chose to remain at Alabama as the defensive coordinator. This decision was influenced by his desire to continue developing his skills at the college level and his close relationship with Nick Saban. Smart believed that his impact as a coach could be greater in college football, where he had more control over player development and recruitment.
This decision proved to be a wise one, as Smart continued to build his legacy at Alabama before moving on to Georgia, where he has solidified his status as one of the top coaches in the sport.
Kirby Smart’s Contract: A Look at His Salary and Terms
Kirby Smart’s success at Georgia has not gone unnoticed, and his contract reflects his value to the program. As one of the highest-paid coaches in college football, Smart’s contract details provide insight into the level of commitment the University of Georgia has made to ensure he remains at the helm of the Bulldogs.
Kirby Smart’s Salary: Breaking Down the Numbers
As of his most recent contract extension in 2022, Kirby Smart’s salary is among the highest in college football, earning approximately $11.25 million per year. This figure includes his base salary, bonuses, and other incentives tied to the team’s performance.
Smart’s contract also includes significant bonuses for achievements such as winning the SEC Championship, making the College Football Playoff, and winning the National Championship. These performance-based incentives align Smart’s financial rewards with the success of the program, further motivating him to maintain Georgia’s status as a top-tier football program.
The Length and Security of Kirby Smart’s Contract
Kirby Smart’s contract extension in 2022 secured his position as Georgia’s head coach through the 2031 season. This long-term commitment provides stability for both Smart and the university, ensuring that he has the time and resources needed to continue building on the success he has already achieved.
The security of a long-term contract also allows Smart to focus on recruiting and player development without the distraction of contract negotiations or uncertainty about his future. This stability is a key factor in Georgia’s ability to attract top talent and compete for championships year after year.
Kirby Smart’s Age and Career Milestones
At the age of 48, Kirby Smart has already achieved more than many coaches do in a lifetime. His relatively young age suggests that he has many more years of coaching ahead of him, which is a promising prospect for Georgia football fans.
Key Milestones in Kirby Smart’s Career
- 1999: Graduates from the University of Georgia and begins his coaching career as an administrative assistant.
- 2004: Joins LSU as a defensive backs coach, marking the beginning of his association with Nick Saban.
- 2007: Becomes the defensive coordinator at Alabama, leading one of the most dominant defenses in college football history.
- 2015: Named head coach of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, returning to his alma mater.
- 2017: Leads Georgia to an SEC Championship and a trip to the College Football Playoff National Championship game.
- 2022: Signs a contract extension with Georgia, securing his position through the 2031 season.
These milestones highlight Smart’s rapid rise through the coaching ranks and his consistent success at every level.
Kirby Smart and Texas A&M: A Brief Connection
While Kirby Smart is most closely associated with Georgia and Alabama, his name has occasionally been linked to Texas A&M. This connection primarily stems from speculation about coaching vacancies and Smart’s potential fit with various programs.
The Rumors and Reality
In 2017, when Texas A&M was searching for a new head coach, Kirby Smart’s name was mentioned as a possible candidate. However, there was never any serious movement towards him leaving Georgia for Texas A&M. Smart’s strong ties to Georgia, both as a former player and as a successful coach, made it unlikely that he would consider a move to another program, even one as prestigious as Texas A&M.
Smart’s decision to remain at Georgia has proven to be the right one, as he continues to build on the program’s success and work towards his goal of bringing multiple national championships to Athens.
FAQs About Kirby Smart
1. What is Kirby Smart’s current salary?
As of 2022, Kirby Smart’s salary is approximately $11.25 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
2. Did Kirby Smart ever coach in the NFL?
Yes, Kirby Smart spent time in the NFL as the safeties coach for the Miami Dolphins in 2006. He was also offered a position with the Atlanta Falcons in 2010 but chose to remain in college football.
3. What are some of the past teams Kirby Smart has coached?
Kirby Smart has coached at Valdosta State, Florida State, LSU, and Alabama before becoming the head coach at the University of Georgia.
4. What is the length of Kirby Smart’s current contract?
Kirby Smart’s current contract with the University of Georgia extends through the 2031 season.
5. How old is Kirby Smart?
Kirby Smart was born on December 23, 1975, making him 48 years old.
6. Was Kirby Smart ever linked to Texas A&M?
Kirby Smart’s name has been mentioned in connection with Texas A&M during coaching searches, but he has remained committed to Georgia, where he continues to build his legacy.
Conclusion
Kirby Smart’s journey from a college player to one of the most successful coaches in college football is a testament to his dedication, strategic brilliance, and love for the game. His impact on the University of Georgia and the broader world of college football cannot be overstated. With a lucrative contract, a history of success, and many more years ahead of him, Smart’s legacy is still being written. As he continues to lead the Bulldogs to new heights, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this already impressive career will continue to evolve.
